Shelby County Schools saw gains in nearly every subject and grade level on the 2012 TCAP test.
The Tennessee Department of Education released the results last week for the Tennessee Comprehensive Assessment Program for grades 3-8 and 2012 high school tests.
Much like the statewide results detailed by Education Commissioner Kevin Huffman, SCS achievement scores climbed in all four subjects for grades 3-8, including an 8.1 percent jump in Math.
At the high school level, SCS is one of just 50 of the state’s 136 systems to earn a double-digit increase in Algebra I (11.4 percentage points).
“We are extremely encouraged by our achievement scores,” Superintendent John Aitken said. “Overall, our percentages of proficient and advanced students exceeded the state average in every subject, and I owe much credit to the hard-working teachers and school administrators who endured the challenges of a new evaluation model last year and dedicated themselves to our students.
“Of course, our incredibly supportive parents also impact our classrooms in such a strong and positive way,” he continued. “Still, we recognize there is always room to improve. We know that effective teaching impacts student learning, and we are confident that our commitment to teacher development and support will continue to drive achievement.”
The 2012 testing year marked the second year for the district’s intensive and Professional Learning Community initiative and Formative Assessment practices.
Aitken said the hiring of two new Lead Math teachers was also a major contributor to the district’s growth in 3-8 Math and Algebra 1.
